Mark Davis left uncertainty surrounding the future of Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce during last week’s NFL owners meeting. When asked about Pierce’s status, Davis indicated he preferred not to discuss it, but mentioned that both Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco would be evaluated separately. This statement raised concerns for Pierce, especially given Telesco’s successful draft that included potential Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate Brock Bowers and two starting offensive linemen.
Pierce’s position appears precarious, particularly as the Raiders (2-12) are on a 10-game losing streak following a loss to Atlanta. They will face the struggling Jacksonville Jaguars (3-11) on Sunday, with the Raiders entering as 1-point favorites at BetMGM Sportsbook, presenting an opportunity to snap their losing streak.
Despite the challenges, there are reasons to believe Pierce could return for another season. In his first year as the full-time head coach, Pierce took over mid-season last year, leading the team to a 5-4 record as interim coach. This season, he has dealt with significant obstacles, including the absence of a franchise quarterback, the loss of star running back Josh Jacobs in free agency, and injuries that have sidelined key players on both offense and defense. Additionally, the early-season drama surrounding Davante Adams, who was traded to the New York Jets, added to the team’s challenges.
Notably, Pierce has observed that his players continue to compete as if a playoff spot is within reach. “It’s not really about them fighting for me,” Pierce said. “We’re fighting for one another. We understand where we’re at. We get what’s going on.”
The Raiders’ struggles extend beyond the quarterback position, and how much responsibility falls on Pierce will likely be evaluated by Davis, possibly with input from new minority owner Tom Brady. Speculation about Mike Vrabel potentially becoming the next Raiders coach has circulated, fueled by his previous connection with Brady in New England, though Vrabel is considered a candidate for multiple coaching positions.
Davis may opt for a coaching change or decide to give Pierce another chance, as the Raiders have cycled through four coaches since 2017. “Me and Mark Davis talk often, and the conversations have been the same as they always are, very positive,” Pierce noted Tuesday. When asked if he anticipates returning next season, Pierce replied, “I’m under contract.”
What’s Working
Despite defensive end Maxx Crosby being sidelined for the season due to an ankle injury, the Raiders’ pass rush remains effective, having recorded 12 sacks over the past three games. They managed to sack Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins three times in their recent 15-9 loss.
What Needs Help
A struggling running game is a major contributor to the Raiders’ disappointing season. Las Vegas averages just 78.1 rushing yards per game, the worst in the league by over 11 yards. The team has failed to surpass 100 rushing yards in six of their last seven games.
Stock Up
The Raiders’ defense has kept them competitive in two of the past three weeks, limiting the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs to 19 points and the Falcons to 15. Atlanta was held scoreless for the final three quarters, allowing the Raiders a chance for a last-minute drive.
Stock Down
Special teams have been a liability, particularly in the game against the Falcons, where they allowed an extra point to be blocked and experienced issues with two punts. Additionally, a punt was fielded at the 3-yard line.
Injuries
Quarterback Aidan O’Connell (knee) was inactive for Monday’s game but is showing improvement. “I would say he’s trending upwards to play this week,” Pierce said. Running back Sincere McCormick (ankle) may also be sidelined, with no update available from Pierce.
Key Number
14 — The Raiders are one of only two teams in NFL history to fall behind by double digits in each of their first 14 games of a season, joining the 1986 Indianapolis Colts, who trailed by at least 10 points in all 16 games.
Next Steps
The Raiders will host the Jaguars on Sunday, in a matchup between two teams with a combined five victories.
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